Quick-Fix Soups and Sandwiches

Keep these family-friendly recipes on hand for fast weeknight meals or casual entertaining.

Soup and sandwiches go together like shrimp and grits, peaches and cream, and bacon and eggs. You might choose a soup and sandwich for a light meal on a hot summer’s evening, or you may choose a hearty, meaty stew and sub sandwich to fortify you on a blustery winter night. Whatever your preference, an invigorating bourbon cocktail goes well with any soup and sandwich combo. If you need to use leftover holiday ham or turkey, or need ideas to feed a tailgate crowd, you will find what you need in this lineup of delicious soups and sandwiches. Your fresh herbs and cucumbers combine to make a cool and refreshing Pepper Gazpacho. Pair with a grilled cheese for a breezy summertime meal. If you have an abundance of tomatoes, try one of fresh salsa or tomato soup recipes. We have included classics such as cheese soups, baked potato soups, and chicken and dumplings, as well as crowd pleasers like muffulettas and pimiento cheese sandwiches, and taco soup.

Easy Chicken and Dumplings

Canned biscuits turn into delicious dumplings in this quick-and-easy version of the traditional recipe. Use deli-roasted chicken to save time; one roasted chicken yields about 3 cups, the amount needed for this recipe.

Dressed-up Tomato Soup

Add a little zing to canned tomato soup by blending with canned Italian-style diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and fresh ground pepper. If desired, top with a dollop of sour cream and chopped fresh parsley before serving.

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4 of 19Photo: Beth Dreiling Hontzas

Black Bean Chili

Ready in only 30 minutes, this quick, meatless chili is made with black beans, meatless burger crumbles, and canned tomatoes. You can substitute ground beef for the meatless burger crumbles, if desired. Top with a dollop of sour cream, corn chips, and chopped fresh cilantro just before serving.

Fried Fish Sandwiches

Our readers love that you can use pretty much whatever white fish is available at the supermarket to make this sandwich. Whether you use mahi-mahi, cod, or grouper, the secret to success is dredging the fish in a seasoned cornmeal mixture and egg and then frying until golden brown. Top with your favorite store-bought tartar sauce and trimmings.

Quick Turkey Chili and Extra-Cheesy Grilled Cheese

Quick Turkey Chili is a snap to assemble. Including prep and cook time, you’ll have it ready in an hour. If you have time, make a double batch and store some in the freezer for a jump-start on a future meal. Complete the meal with Extra-Cheesy Grilled Cheese sandwiches.

Taco Soup

This soup is the go-to recipe for an easy night of entertaining friends or a quick weeknight supper for your family. Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, so you'll be able to put together this recipe quickly.